Wayne, NJ – At a conference hosted by Visions Federal Credit Union, high school students met with former National Football League (NFL) players to learn about financial literacy and leadership. More than 75 students attended the free conference, Game Plan for Success, which was held at William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ.
Presented in partnership with Athletes for Vets (AV) and powered by the NFL Players Association's Former Players Chapter of New York and New Jersey, the conference was invite-only and attended by sophomores and juniors of Manchester Regional High School and Paterson Charter School for Science and Technology. Visions has a Financial Wellness Team that works closely with several high schools in the region and throughout the credit union's footprint in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.
"We teach many of these financial literacy concepts at local schools," said Matt Kisloski, Visions' Financial Wellness Manager. "This conference was a great way to have those lessons taught from a different perspective. When a lesson comes from an athlete, a coach, or a celebrity, it can reenforce the idea in a fun and memorable way."
Dereck Faulkner, a former NFL player and Executive Director of AV, worked alongside Visions staff to plan the event and coordinate other former NFL players who presented during breakout sessions about credit, preparing for college, and budgeting for financial fitness. After the breakout sessions, Faulkner hosted a panel discussion about the importance of leadership and legacy, followed by an informal meet and greet for the students.
Faulkner said, "This was a successful high school education event, where students were not only given information, but were also inspired and motivated to learn and grow their future."
Other former NFL players who participated in the breakout sessions or panel included Sean James, Steve Maneri, Geoff Pope, Carlos Perez, and Lew Toler.
About Athletes for Vets
Athletes For Vets is a 501(c) (3) non-for-profit organization founded in 2011. Athletes for Vets is comprised of individuals working together to impact the future and welfare of the military men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces – the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and all Reserve Components.
About Visions
Visions Federal Credit Union is a not for profit financial institution completely owned by its members. Established in 1966, Visions proudly serves over 250,000 members in communities throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Services include banking as well as auto, home, personal, and business loans.
Ref: Visions FCU press release, 2023.
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